Is your period late? If so, you may be wondering how late is too late for a period? (And with good reason!). A late period can be cause for concern. If your period is late, pregnancy can be a first thought, but there are other reasons periods can be late, too. Some of us have irregular cycles and some others have regular cycles. Tracking cycles is one way to better identify what to expect with your period month after month.
No matter how well you know your body though - it’s always going through change. From internal to external factors, your period may be late due to a number of reasons. If you have concerns, it’s always best to contact your doctor.
In the meantime, let us help you understand some common causes:.
Common Causes of a Late Period
- Stress: Stress can cause your period to be late. Additionally, a late period can increase stress as you worry about what could be going on. Stress disrupts the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This hormone works to regulate ovulation and menstrual cycles, hence the impact this can have on your period. Stress can be in the form of physical or psychological stress - and both can impact your period starting. Some women may miss a period during times of extreme stress. If you have missed or continue to miss a period and are concerned, contact your doctor.
- Weight loss or gain: Weight loss or weight gain can shake up cycles, especially if the weight gain or loss is fast. A change in diet or excess exercise can also contribute to a late period. While you may want to consult a doctor, awareness of what changes to expect can help you prepare. At some point, cycles should become more consistent. Consider tracking your cycle so you can identify your pattern.
- You are currently in premenopause: Perimenopause can cause a variety of bleeding patterns. During this time, it can be hard to know what to expect. One of the best ways to protect from leaks and keep going during this time is to wear leakproof underwear. Simply wash and wear, again and again, and go about your day.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy is one of the most obvious reasons for a missed period. Additionally, it’s an easy item to check off the list. If your period is 10 days late, take a pregnancy test. While some pregnancy tests can deliver a result sooner than 10 days, false positives or negatives do happen. To be absolutely sure of pregnancy, see your doctor for a pregnancy test.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS causes hormonal imbalance which in turn can delay periods or make them irregular. Oftentimes, PCOS comes with other symptoms such as weight gain, infertility, acne, and so forth. While PCOS can be difficult to diagnose, you should consult your doctor for more information.
- Hormonal birth control: Starting or withdrawing contraceptives can affect cycles, especially if you have been on the contraceptive for a long time. As your body adjusts, be patient. Tracking cycles is helpful for you and can be helpful for your doctor, too. Usually they will always want to know cycle dates as a starting point for their diagnosis.
- Chronic disorders or health conditions: Periods can be impacted by health issues. While this may be an underlying symptom, it can still be accounted for. In our busy lives it’s easy to disconnect from your body. Do your best to stay in touch with your body and pay attention to what it’s telling you.
Is It Normal To Have A Late Period?
Late periods happen, and can happen often. Usually periods are late by a few days, and while they can be later than that, you may want to consult your doctor with any concerns. Tracking cycles can help you determine what’s normal for your body. Investing in leakproof period underwear can help you be prepared for your period. Say goodbye to interrupted days. Move freely with our buttery-soft leakproof period underwear.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Healthcare is a privilege, but don’t be afraid to take advantage. If you ever feel like something is off or have any concerns, contact your doctor. Be prepared though as they will want to know symptoms, and details can help them diagnose the issue better. Tracking cycles and knowing dates can be helpful when it comes to seeing a doctor for menstrual cycles. So while we encourage you to contact a doctor anytime you feel the need, if you have missed your period 3 cycles in a row or more, you should definitely contact your doctor. If you have other unusual symptoms, report those too.
Closing Thoughts
Most women experience signs that their period is coming soon, and you’ll want to be prepared. While there are several ways to protect from leaks, our leakproof underwear is a great alternative to single-use products. Our period underwear is buttery soft, breathable, and designed to protect for all types of leaks. With no show-edges and Leak-Loc® Technology, our underwear is just like your basics made better. Wear it day or night and always be ready for your period to come, no surprises here.
